Whisper Woods at Smithtown hosts two support groups – one for dementia caregivers and one for stroke survivors and caregivers – in partnership with St. Catherine of Siena Medical Center. An industry expert will discuss what the stages of dementia are and what it means to the caregiver and tips for dealing with the challenges post-stroke and overcoming the motor communication, comprehension and language barriers.

Stroke is the leading cause of serious, long-term disability in the United States. More than 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. The Stroke and Dementia Support Groups allow community members suffering from or caring for someone with these issues to find support and mentorship, around the common goal of living the best life possible.

Who should attend: Community members who are affected by or have loved ones affected by dementia or stroke.

Dementia Support Group, Thursday, March 29, at 10:00 a.m. Stroke Support Group, Thursday, March 29, at 11:00 a.m.(Groups are held on the last Thursday of every month.)

Whisper Woods at Smithtown - 71 St. Johnland Rd. Smithtown, NY 11787

RSVP: For more information about the support groups and to register, contact (631) 870-3444.

Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone and Department of Health Services Commissioner Dr. James Tomarken invite residents who are at risk for developing type-2 diabetes to participate, free of charge, in the county- administered National Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP). The program supports moderate behavior changes and has proven to reduce risk in those who are at risk for type 2 diabetes.

DPP is based on a research study led by the National Institutes of Health. The study showed that with intensive counseling and motivational support, participants were able to make behavioral changes, reducing their risk for developing Type 2 Diabetes by 58 percent. Lifestyle changes worked particularly well for participants aged 60 and older, reducing their risk by 71 percent.

“We seek to reverse in Suffolk County the nationwide trend toward increased rates of diabetes. This program addresses the behaviors that contribute to diabetes, a disease that exacts enormous costs to the individual, the family and the community,” said Executive Bellone.

“Diabetes puts people at risk for many serious health conditions,” said Dr. Tomarken. “The good news is that moderate changes in lifestyle can result in significant health benefits,” said Dr. Tomarken.

The Diabetes Prevention Program is led by a trained lifestyle coach. It meets one hour per week for 16 weeks, then monthly for the remainder of one year.

Suffolk Health Commissioner Encourages Tobacco Users to Seek Help in Attempting to Break Their Addiction

Tobacco use remains the leading cause of preventable death and illness in the U.S.

Suffolk County Health Commissioner Dr. James Tomarken encourages residents who use tobacco to seek help in attempting to break their addiction by registering for Suffolk County’s “Learn to Be …Tobacco Free” program. The program, which is free to Suffolk County residents, offers assistance with planning, support, and counseling. The program also provides over-the counter medications for a fee to participants who are medically eligible.

“Tobacco use remains the leading preventable cause of death and illness in the U.S., with nearly half a million Americans dying prematurely from smoking each year and more than 16 million Americans suffering from diseases caused by smoking,” said Dr. Tomarken.

Studies have shown that tobacco users who try to break their addiction with behavioral support are more likely to be successful than those who try to do so without support. Registration for the program is open until the second week of each session. Classes will take place as follows: